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An Unexpected Merry Gentleman
‘Tis the season to be jolly and Mr. Darcy and his sister have been invited to Netherfield for Christmas with Bingley’s business associate and the Bennets of Longbourn. There is no comfort or joy for this taciturn man when he discovers the sparkling Elizabeth Bennet finds him proud and arrogant. His only choice is to win her heart, but is it too late to change her opinion of him? Elizabeth Bennet is dismayed when she discovers the holiday guests of Netherfield include Mr. Darcy. How will she remain in the spirit of Christmas when faced with such a disagreeable man? Yet, with the kindness and attention he displays to her two young cousins, and the handsome Mr. Wickham’s character beginning to unravel, can she really trust in first impressions? Join the residents of Meryton as the spirit of the holidays may turn Mr. Darcy into “An Unexpected Merry Gentleman” after all. ~A low angst, clean holiday novella
150 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 2, 2018
38 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
November 22, 2021
Our hearts grow tender with childhood memories and love of kindred, and we are better throughout the year for having, in spirit, become a child again at Christmas-time. ~ Laura Ingalls Wilder
Bingley meets with Mr. Gardiner in London after leaving Netherfield and Jane Bennet behind. Unexpectedly … he invites the Gardiner family to join him at Netherfield for the Christmas season.
Unexpectedly … Mr. and Miss Darcy tag along.
Aunt Gardiner has some unexpected news from friends in Derbyshire.
The Gardiner daughters have unexpected similarities to another set of sisters.
This is an enjoyable sweet story, perfect for the season.
Bingley meets with Mr. Gardiner in London after leaving Netherfield and Jane Bennet behind. Unexpectedly … he invites the Gardiner family to join him at Netherfield for the Christmas season.
Unexpectedly … Mr. and Miss Darcy tag along.
Aunt Gardiner has some unexpected news from friends in Derbyshire.
The Gardiner daughters have unexpected similarities to another set of sisters.
This is an enjoyable sweet story, perfect for the season.
December 26, 2021
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
December 14, 2018
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars
This was perfect for the Christmas season. Bingley stands up for himself and decides to re-open Netherfield and to determine on his own if Jane Bennet has feelings for him. The Darcys have planned to return and spend Christmas at Pemberley but are persuaded to join Bingley and his aunt (no Caroline or Hursts) at Netherfield. Bingley, out of gratitude for some excellent business advice, has invited Mr. Gardiner and his wife and two young daughters to spend Christmas at Netherfield this year.
So we read of the two young girls, Victoria and Emma (who, of course, remind many of their older cousins, Jane & Elizabeth) interacting with the adults, especially when their Nanny and parents become ill. Their observations of "hearts" in the eyes of courting couples and how "pink" certain faces become are not made quietly. They also make some comments about a certain man's actions towards one of the maidservants and thus the Bennet sisters are given further hints as to that nefarious man's character.
No real angst but lots of sweet moments as ODC spend some time together and make observations about the other's characters, even learning about how each behaved as small children.
"Promise me...our own little Lizzy Bennet."
This was perfect for the Christmas season. Bingley stands up for himself and decides to re-open Netherfield and to determine on his own if Jane Bennet has feelings for him. The Darcys have planned to return and spend Christmas at Pemberley but are persuaded to join Bingley and his aunt (no Caroline or Hursts) at Netherfield. Bingley, out of gratitude for some excellent business advice, has invited Mr. Gardiner and his wife and two young daughters to spend Christmas at Netherfield this year.
So we read of the two young girls, Victoria and Emma (who, of course, remind many of their older cousins, Jane & Elizabeth) interacting with the adults, especially when their Nanny and parents become ill. Their observations of "hearts" in the eyes of courting couples and how "pink" certain faces become are not made quietly. They also make some comments about a certain man's actions towards one of the maidservants and thus the Bennet sisters are given further hints as to that nefarious man's character.
No real angst but lots of sweet moments as ODC spend some time together and make observations about the other's characters, even learning about how each behaved as small children.
"Promise me...our own little Lizzy Bennet."
December 23, 2021
Another excellent Christmas tale
The story takes place at Netherfield and Longbourn. There are many of our favorites and few of our unfavorites. In addition one new character is an aunt of Bingley’s to act as his hostess. And two young Gardiner girl cousins who could not be anymore adorable. Last but least, a new puppy named Pepper.
Is this ‘War and Peace’ or ‘Oliver Twist’? Of course not. But is a lovely, warm family Christmas tale about the holidays, kindness, and forgiveness.
I recommend this little bit special holiday book.
Addition January 2021. It has a really excellent cover. 2 young ladies, Lizzy’s cousins, dressed in their best dresses with curls in their hair peaking through a door wondering what all the adult are doing in a Xmas party. Adorable.
The story takes place at Netherfield and Longbourn. There are many of our favorites and few of our unfavorites. In addition one new character is an aunt of Bingley’s to act as his hostess. And two young Gardiner girl cousins who could not be anymore adorable. Last but least, a new puppy named Pepper.
Is this ‘War and Peace’ or ‘Oliver Twist’? Of course not. But is a lovely, warm family Christmas tale about the holidays, kindness, and forgiveness.
I recommend this little bit special holiday book.
Addition January 2021. It has a really excellent cover. 2 young ladies, Lizzy’s cousins, dressed in their best dresses with curls in their hair peaking through a door wondering what all the adult are doing in a Xmas party. Adorable.
December 16, 2018
This is a short sweet Xmas story that filled my heart with all the proper emotions of the holiday thus my instantaneous 5 stars which I feel may have been overenthusiastic. The story begins with Darcy telling Bingley that Jane doesn't love you, she never loved you, her mercenary mother only sees your fortune... Merry Christmas (j/k) then Darcy invites Bingley to Pemberley and Bingley agrees because he will be alone for the holidays as Caro is with the Hursts somewhere else. Then Bingley meets with Mr. Gardiner who clues him in to a scam that is being done at Bingley's business and saves the day and Bingley decides to reopen Netherfield to have the Gardiners stay with him at Xmas in Meryton. Darcy is still to Pemberley Bingley and the Gardiners arrive in Meryton, Wickham quickly shows his perfidy. Darcy inwardly admits his attraction to Miss Elizabeth and also learns that she doesn't like him.
Oh will we get to a HEA (yes)? Will everything work out for the best (yes)? it's a Christmas story for Pete's sake.
The author uses the Gardiner two small daughters (Jane & Lizzy redux- what are the odds?) to shove the plot along and get people to reveal themselves.
One really annoying error, especially for a story with 2 editors, the school in England, near Windsor castle where Prince William attended (as apparently did Darcy ) is Eton NOT Eaton. If only there were some sort of resource where we could look these things up /s
Oh will we get to a HEA (yes)? Will everything work out for the best (yes)? it's a Christmas story for Pete's sake.
The author uses the Gardiner two small daughters (Jane & Lizzy redux- what are the odds?) to shove the plot along and get people to reveal themselves.
One really annoying error, especially for a story with 2 editors, the school in England, near Windsor castle where Prince William attended (as apparently did Darcy ) is Eton NOT Eaton. If only there were some sort of resource where we could look these things up /s
December 30, 2021
Very sweet story. Jane and Elizabeth’s little cousins, Victoria and Emily were so cute and quite observant for their ages. Cheeks turning pink and hearts in one’s eyes…
Bingley is aided by Mr Gardiner who was an old of friend of Bingley’s father. Bingley decides to take charge of his business affairs and decides to invite the Gardiners for the Christmas holiday as a means of thanking Me Gardiner for his help.
Darcy and Georgiana join Bingley at Netherfield as the roads are too bad to travel to Derbyshire.
Elizabeth and Darcy are reacquainted, actually talk to each other and in doing so, Elizabeth realizes she has erred in her judgment regarding Darcy.
Lydia and Kitty are barely mentioned.
Miss King is saved by her uncle from eloping with Wickham.
Wickham is caught by the militia. We’re told this rather than see it actually occur; a little disappointing because I always like to see Wickham receive his comeuppance.
Bingley is aided by Mr Gardiner who was an old of friend of Bingley’s father. Bingley decides to take charge of his business affairs and decides to invite the Gardiners for the Christmas holiday as a means of thanking Me Gardiner for his help.
Darcy and Georgiana join Bingley at Netherfield as the roads are too bad to travel to Derbyshire.
Elizabeth and Darcy are reacquainted, actually talk to each other and in doing so, Elizabeth realizes she has erred in her judgment regarding Darcy.
Lydia and Kitty are barely mentioned.
Miss King is saved by her uncle from eloping with Wickham.
Wickham is caught by the militia. We’re told this rather than see it actually occur; a little disappointing because I always like to see Wickham receive his comeuppance.
December 26, 2018
This sweet Pride and Prejudice variation, finds Elizabeth and Darcy discovering their mutual attraction while surrounded by family at Christmas time at Netherfield. The most interesting character is Emily Gardnier, who loves to get into scrapes as Elizabeth did as a child. Her observations and the shared observations of her behavior are the catalyst for our dear couple.
December 7, 2018
A lovely, feel-good Christmas themed variation.
Situated at Meryton as bad weather enticed Mr and Miss Darcy to accept Bingley's invitation to spend Christmas at Netherfield.
Heartily recommend this book!
Situated at Meryton as bad weather enticed Mr and Miss Darcy to accept Bingley's invitation to spend Christmas at Netherfield.
Heartily recommend this book!
June 6, 2021
What if Mr. Bingley and Mr. Darcy Returned to Netherfield For Christmas?
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Purchased
When strong snowstorms threaten traveling north Mr. Bingley decides to return to Netherfield for the holiday season and invites the family of his business associate (who has just done him a very good turn) and the Darcy siblings (who aren’t able to venture to Pemberley because of the snow). And as coincidence would have it, Mr. Bingley’s business associate is none other than Mr. Gardiner! So a merry gathering descends upon Netherfield and some unexpected discoveries are instantly made: Mr. Bingley discovers that Jane might not be as indifferent to him as some believed her to be, Mr. Darcy discovers that the Bennets, and in particular, Elizabeth Bennet, believe him arrogant and disdainful, and Elizabeth Bennet discovers a new side of Mr. Darcy as she observes his interactions with both his sister and her young cousins.
This novella is utterly charming! I loved the unexpected developments and the sweet scenes they produced. Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet are very much at the heart of this story, alongside with little Emily and Victoria Gardiner, who are quick to observe and assess their cousins’ suitors and freely share their opinions! These little dears were probably my favorite aspect of this story! I loved their romantic hearts and interests in their cousins’ affairs. They are exceptionally good judges of character – more so then their cousin at first! And I especially loved their scenes with Mr. Darcy and how he was so gentle and playful with them. Talk about heartwarming and endearing scenes!
Another element I loved about this novella was all the cheerful and charming bits of Christmas and childhood memories. I loved the gift-giving and playtime in the snow, and I loved seeing both Elizabeth and Darcy share personal memories with the girls. In addition, I enjoyed how Ms. Schroeder intertwined the Christmas carol “God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman” with this story and used lyrics from the song as fitting chapter titles. As with most of the novellas I read, I did wish for this story to be extended just a little bit more. I enjoyed how Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s relationship was evolving and Elizabeth’s new understanding about Mr. Wickham, and I wouldn’t have minded seeing some of these scenes drawn out some.
An Unexpected Merry Gentleman is a wonderful choice for readers who are looking for a quick yet heartwarming tale they can enjoy in between their busy holiday-hustle-and-bustle and merry-making! A sincere and sweet Pride and Prejudice novella full of spirit! I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Purchased
When strong snowstorms threaten traveling north Mr. Bingley decides to return to Netherfield for the holiday season and invites the family of his business associate (who has just done him a very good turn) and the Darcy siblings (who aren’t able to venture to Pemberley because of the snow). And as coincidence would have it, Mr. Bingley’s business associate is none other than Mr. Gardiner! So a merry gathering descends upon Netherfield and some unexpected discoveries are instantly made: Mr. Bingley discovers that Jane might not be as indifferent to him as some believed her to be, Mr. Darcy discovers that the Bennets, and in particular, Elizabeth Bennet, believe him arrogant and disdainful, and Elizabeth Bennet discovers a new side of Mr. Darcy as she observes his interactions with both his sister and her young cousins.
This novella is utterly charming! I loved the unexpected developments and the sweet scenes they produced. Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet are very much at the heart of this story, alongside with little Emily and Victoria Gardiner, who are quick to observe and assess their cousins’ suitors and freely share their opinions! These little dears were probably my favorite aspect of this story! I loved their romantic hearts and interests in their cousins’ affairs. They are exceptionally good judges of character – more so then their cousin at first! And I especially loved their scenes with Mr. Darcy and how he was so gentle and playful with them. Talk about heartwarming and endearing scenes!
Another element I loved about this novella was all the cheerful and charming bits of Christmas and childhood memories. I loved the gift-giving and playtime in the snow, and I loved seeing both Elizabeth and Darcy share personal memories with the girls. In addition, I enjoyed how Ms. Schroeder intertwined the Christmas carol “God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman” with this story and used lyrics from the song as fitting chapter titles. As with most of the novellas I read, I did wish for this story to be extended just a little bit more. I enjoyed how Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s relationship was evolving and Elizabeth’s new understanding about Mr. Wickham, and I wouldn’t have minded seeing some of these scenes drawn out some.
An Unexpected Merry Gentleman is a wonderful choice for readers who are looking for a quick yet heartwarming tale they can enjoy in between their busy holiday-hustle-and-bustle and merry-making! A sincere and sweet Pride and Prejudice novella full of spirit! I highly recommend!
Austenesque Reviews
December 15, 2018
Loved loved this novella. Very sweet and the Misses Gardiner’s were wonderfully entertaining.
April 13, 2022
Short & sweet Christmas story - Bingley & Darcy return to Hertfordshire not long after "fleeing" to London after the Netherfield Ball.
This is another of those books that I read long before I started using Goodreads. In this case, I had extra credits with Audible and saw that Elizabeth Grace was narrating the audiobook. She is hands my favorite narrator so I needed to own this story.
This is another of those books that I read long before I started using Goodreads. In this case, I had extra credits with Audible and saw that Elizabeth Grace was narrating the audiobook. She is hands my favorite narrator so I needed to own this story.
December 16, 2018
A lovely Christmas novella. It begins when Bingley has left Netherfield after the ball and is in London. Bingley meets the Gardiners while in London dealing with his business. The Gardiner accept Bingley’s invitation to Netherfield for Christmas and bring their children Emily and Victoria with them. Darcy and Georgiana also we’re invited to join Bingley but, declined the invitation and decided to go to Pemberley to help Darcy forget Elizabeth. The weather does not permit the Darcy’s to go to Pemberley so they go to Netherfield for Christmas. A delightful story with two lovely children Emily and Victoria that warms your heart with the Christmas spirit and love is in the air.
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November 19, 2019Anngela Schroeder's new Pride and Prejudice-inspired Christmas novella, An Unexpected Merry Gentleman, is a delightful, heartwarming story for the holiday season. Mr. Bingley invites the Gardiners and the Darcys to Netherfield for Christmas, and while there, he hopes to find out for himself whether Jane Bennet really does have feelings for him. Mr. Darcy is a little ruffled at the change in his holiday plans, mostly because he's spent much of his time since the Netherfield Ball trying to forget Elizabeth Bennet. But it's not long before he's spending all his time trying to change her opinion of him.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth can't believe the Mr. Darcy who is so playful with her rambunctious nieces, Victoria and Emily, is the same Mr. Darcy who denied Mr. Wickham his livelihood. But Christmas at Netherfield gives them the opportunity to get to know each other and get past their first impressions and misunderstandings.
I absolutely adored this book, so much so that I read it in one sitting. I loved how Victoria and Emily Gardiner are the spitting images of Jane and Elizabeth Bennet, and I especially loved Emily; what a spitfire! And it's so cute how Mr. Darcy is so taken by Emily, recognizing that she is like a "Little Lizzy Bennet." The presence of the children not only brings joy to Darcy's sister and helps him realize that she's no longer a child, but it also enables Darcy and Elizabeth to bond over their childhood escapades. I just loved their tender interactions and how their feelings evolved over the course of the book.
An Unexpected Merry Gentleman is a must-read for your Christmas list.
Review originally posted on Diary of an Eccentric
Meanwhile, Elizabeth can't believe the Mr. Darcy who is so playful with her rambunctious nieces, Victoria and Emily, is the same Mr. Darcy who denied Mr. Wickham his livelihood. But Christmas at Netherfield gives them the opportunity to get to know each other and get past their first impressions and misunderstandings.
I absolutely adored this book, so much so that I read it in one sitting. I loved how Victoria and Emily Gardiner are the spitting images of Jane and Elizabeth Bennet, and I especially loved Emily; what a spitfire! And it's so cute how Mr. Darcy is so taken by Emily, recognizing that she is like a "Little Lizzy Bennet." The presence of the children not only brings joy to Darcy's sister and helps him realize that she's no longer a child, but it also enables Darcy and Elizabeth to bond over their childhood escapades. I just loved their tender interactions and how their feelings evolved over the course of the book.
An Unexpected Merry Gentleman is a must-read for your Christmas list.
Review originally posted on Diary of an Eccentric
November 19, 2021
I loved it two years ago and I've fallen in love with it even more now in '21. I got the audio version with the very distinctive Elizabeth Grace as narrator. I love her Darcy voice. Her narration makes the story that much better than reading it myself. I have forgotten enough details in the past two years that there were a handful of surprises in store for me. Yay! Gift!
I loved Bingley in this tale, he really grows up quickly and takes this situation with Jane on his own without his sisters' or his friends' opinions. Go Charles!
No story, Christmas-y or written for any other time of year is so compelling as when there are babies, children or dogs to steal the show. And Angela Schroeder's novella shines with the antics, silliness, and even insight of the young. The two daughters of the Gardiners are visiting Netherfield for the holidays after Mr. Gardiner did Charles a signal service concerning his finances. The girls meet and become friends with Elizabeth and Jane. Then Darcy and Georgie come for the holidays too, Darcy having decided to take Bingley up on his offer knowing that Caroline was not going to be there. The little girls observe everyone with wide eyed curiosity, and the above mentioned insight is evident in those observations. No, these aren't the Hollywood precocious kids. They're still little girls but old enough to pay attention to those around them. It is delightful, lighthearted, funny and heartwarming.
The Darcys visiting Netherfield brings Darcy and Elizabeth together, and their romance is the general focus of the story. It's a very sweet story and I see myself listening to it during Christmas in years to come.
I loved Bingley in this tale, he really grows up quickly and takes this situation with Jane on his own without his sisters' or his friends' opinions. Go Charles!
No story, Christmas-y or written for any other time of year is so compelling as when there are babies, children or dogs to steal the show. And Angela Schroeder's novella shines with the antics, silliness, and even insight of the young. The two daughters of the Gardiners are visiting Netherfield for the holidays after Mr. Gardiner did Charles a signal service concerning his finances. The girls meet and become friends with Elizabeth and Jane. Then Darcy and Georgie come for the holidays too, Darcy having decided to take Bingley up on his offer knowing that Caroline was not going to be there. The little girls observe everyone with wide eyed curiosity, and the above mentioned insight is evident in those observations. No, these aren't the Hollywood precocious kids. They're still little girls but old enough to pay attention to those around them. It is delightful, lighthearted, funny and heartwarming.
The Darcys visiting Netherfield brings Darcy and Elizabeth together, and their romance is the general focus of the story. It's a very sweet story and I see myself listening to it during Christmas in years to come.
December 9, 2025
Just before Christmas Bingley returns to Netherfield with friends from London. Amongst them are Darcy and his sister. Darcy is still captivated by Elizabeth and wishes to win her hand in marriage only to discover that she does not like him. All he can do now is to woo her properly.
Elizabeth had hoped for a joyful Christmas but now she must endure Darcy’s presence. But soon after his arrival she discovers a new side of him, he is kind and attentive to his sister as well as to her two young cousins. When the truth about Mr Wickham is revealed she begins to understand that her first impression of Darcy may have been wrong.
Will Darcy be successful in changing Elizabeth’s opinion of him? Will Elizabeth, with the help of her family and friends, see that he is not looking at her to find fault? And will Darcy finally be able to turn her cheeks as pink as her young cousins hope?
This short Christmas story was very well written by the author Anngela Schroeder. The book is only 150 p. and the audiobook is about 2 h long therefore it fits perfectly in the busy time of Christmas. Definitely one of my favourite Christmas stories.
I dearly love the little Gardiner girls in this story. They are so delightful. I love their observations about life and love (for example a girl turns pink when she is really in love). They are very engaging and they even coax Darcy out of his reserve. Through them Elizabeth gets to know his kindness, gentleness and patients. And she gets a glimpse of how he could be as a father when he interacts with them. Furthermore through their presents Darcy and Elizabeth begin to talk about their own childhood and with this they get to know each other better.
The Gardiner girls also coax Georgiana out of her shell and she is able to act in a carefree manner and be once again the child she still is in parts.
I also love Darcy in this variation. After he returns and meets Elizabeth again he is determined to make her his wife. Only after he is made aware that Elizabeth looks not favourable to him he is aware that he needs to make an effort. But he does it without complaining and he tries to show Elizabeth the true Fitzwilliam Darcy with all his merits (as well as his flaws).
Elizabeth on her part is first skeptical because of Darcy’s changed behaviour but she soon recognizes that her previous assumptions may be incorrect. She then tries to make Darcy out anew and really comes to know him.
I really like that family and friends are aware of Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s feelings at the beginning and that they help them along. Darcy is pointed to Elizabeth’s dislike whereas Elizabeth is made aware of his good character and attitude. Therefore Darcy knows that his goal is to convince her of his worthiness and Elizabeth begins to see that her first impression may have been incorrect. Both can therefore encounter each other with open eyes. It’s a bit like beginning the acquaintance anew and without prejudice.
There are no real villains in the book. George Wickham makes an appearance but he is dealt with without him being able to cause harm to ODC (or others). Therefore ODC only need to overcome their own problems to finally be able to be together.
Luckily Caroline Bingley, William Collins and Lady Catherine are also missing 😉.
The audiobook was narrated by Elizabeth Grace. She is one of my favourite narrators. I like that I know at every part of the story who is speaking to whom because all the characters are voiced by her in a unique way. Her narration makes an excellent story even better.
If you like to know how Darcy, with the help of the Gardiner girls, is able to turn Elizabeth’s opinion of him, you should definitely listen to this excellent audiobook.
I highly recommend it
Elizabeth had hoped for a joyful Christmas but now she must endure Darcy’s presence. But soon after his arrival she discovers a new side of him, he is kind and attentive to his sister as well as to her two young cousins. When the truth about Mr Wickham is revealed she begins to understand that her first impression of Darcy may have been wrong.
Will Darcy be successful in changing Elizabeth’s opinion of him? Will Elizabeth, with the help of her family and friends, see that he is not looking at her to find fault? And will Darcy finally be able to turn her cheeks as pink as her young cousins hope?
This short Christmas story was very well written by the author Anngela Schroeder. The book is only 150 p. and the audiobook is about 2 h long therefore it fits perfectly in the busy time of Christmas. Definitely one of my favourite Christmas stories.
I dearly love the little Gardiner girls in this story. They are so delightful. I love their observations about life and love (for example a girl turns pink when she is really in love). They are very engaging and they even coax Darcy out of his reserve. Through them Elizabeth gets to know his kindness, gentleness and patients. And she gets a glimpse of how he could be as a father when he interacts with them. Furthermore through their presents Darcy and Elizabeth begin to talk about their own childhood and with this they get to know each other better.
The Gardiner girls also coax Georgiana out of her shell and she is able to act in a carefree manner and be once again the child she still is in parts.
I also love Darcy in this variation. After he returns and meets Elizabeth again he is determined to make her his wife. Only after he is made aware that Elizabeth looks not favourable to him he is aware that he needs to make an effort. But he does it without complaining and he tries to show Elizabeth the true Fitzwilliam Darcy with all his merits (as well as his flaws).
Elizabeth on her part is first skeptical because of Darcy’s changed behaviour but she soon recognizes that her previous assumptions may be incorrect. She then tries to make Darcy out anew and really comes to know him.
I really like that family and friends are aware of Darcy’s and Elizabeth’s feelings at the beginning and that they help them along. Darcy is pointed to Elizabeth’s dislike whereas Elizabeth is made aware of his good character and attitude. Therefore Darcy knows that his goal is to convince her of his worthiness and Elizabeth begins to see that her first impression may have been incorrect. Both can therefore encounter each other with open eyes. It’s a bit like beginning the acquaintance anew and without prejudice.
There are no real villains in the book. George Wickham makes an appearance but he is dealt with without him being able to cause harm to ODC (or others). Therefore ODC only need to overcome their own problems to finally be able to be together.
Luckily Caroline Bingley, William Collins and Lady Catherine are also missing 😉.
The audiobook was narrated by Elizabeth Grace. She is one of my favourite narrators. I like that I know at every part of the story who is speaking to whom because all the characters are voiced by her in a unique way. Her narration makes an excellent story even better.
If you like to know how Darcy, with the help of the Gardiner girls, is able to turn Elizabeth’s opinion of him, you should definitely listen to this excellent audiobook.
I highly recommend it
December 9, 2018
4.5 stars
What an adorable tale! Festive, bubbly, full of warmth and enough credibility to make the story thoroughly enjoyable. I loved the introduction of the young Gardiner cousins and their ability to bring out the glimpses of the carefree, happy boy in Mr. Darcy. I only wish the book was longer!
What an adorable tale! Festive, bubbly, full of warmth and enough credibility to make the story thoroughly enjoyable. I loved the introduction of the young Gardiner cousins and their ability to bring out the glimpses of the carefree, happy boy in Mr. Darcy. I only wish the book was longer!
July 26, 2024
A fun holiday story. The merry gentleman is none other than Darcy and how did he become merry? The author does explain. Absence of Caroline, presence of Georgiana and addition of two little girls, one of whom resembling Elizabeth and his resolution to win Elizabeth. What makes it merry for us, all of the above and Wickham's removal and the banter between Darcy and Elizabeth. Though the end felt a bit abrupt.
December 5, 2018
Just beautiful!
Absolutely loved this Christmas novella! So beautiful and heart warming. Highly recommend reading this one in the lead up to Christmas (or any other time you need a good dose of romantic Mr Darcy!!)
Absolutely loved this Christmas novella! So beautiful and heart warming. Highly recommend reading this one in the lead up to Christmas (or any other time you need a good dose of romantic Mr Darcy!!)
December 25, 2025
This is probably my favorite Christmas novella so far!
I totally adored it. Unfortunately it‘s too short. 😢
The narration by Elizabeth Grace was also perfectly done!
Mr Bingley reopens Netherfield again for the festive season with a few guests included, Mr and Mrs Gardiner + kids (Emily and Victoria). The kids are adorable, I loved them and every scene with the kids was probably the best. Let‘s not forget Mr Darcy and Miss Darcy, nor Mr Bingley‘s widowed aunt acting as Hostess.
Let me tell, there are no Hursts and no Caroline Bingley (Wohooo). Clear path without interference for ODC.
It‘s a clear recommendation from my part!
You‘re not interested yet? There are also puppies 😍 And funny mischievous children. 😁 Now you are, right?
- No Angst
- Clean Content
- Quick Read/Listen
I totally adored it. Unfortunately it‘s too short. 😢
The narration by Elizabeth Grace was also perfectly done!
Mr Bingley reopens Netherfield again for the festive season with a few guests included, Mr and Mrs Gardiner + kids (Emily and Victoria). The kids are adorable, I loved them and every scene with the kids was probably the best. Let‘s not forget Mr Darcy and Miss Darcy, nor Mr Bingley‘s widowed aunt acting as Hostess.
Let me tell, there are no Hursts and no Caroline Bingley (Wohooo). Clear path without interference for ODC.
It‘s a clear recommendation from my part!
You‘re not interested yet? There are also puppies 😍 And funny mischievous children. 😁 Now you are, right?
- No Angst
- Clean Content
- Quick Read/Listen
December 27, 2023
Well written and edited except for Eaton instead of Eton.
Another perfect little Christmas novella.
Another perfect little Christmas novella.
January 16, 2019
Perfectly wonderful
Heartwarming, romantic, sweet, satisfying - all these apply most aptly to this short story. A convenient winter snowstorm prevents Darcy and Georgiana from traveling to Pemberly, and they instead accept an invitation to Netherfield Park for the Christmas holiday. Darcy correctly concludes that he may as well stop fighting his attraction to Elizabeth and begin to change her attitude towards him. With the help of Elizabeth's two little Gardiner cousins, both girls, and also with Georgiana 's help, Elizabeth and Darcy are charmed into a series of happy encounters that result in an attachment. The story streamlines the resolution to occur by Christmas following the Netherfield ball. Therefore, most of the peripheral characters are eliminated, along with most of the angst found in the original P&P version. Wickham is disposed of neatly, and Lydia is hardly allowed a single screech. Although it is a short story it didn't feel rushed or contrived. It is a nice, easy, pleasant way to pass a few hours in the good company of ODC, doing what we love them to do, which is fall in love.
Heartwarming, romantic, sweet, satisfying - all these apply most aptly to this short story. A convenient winter snowstorm prevents Darcy and Georgiana from traveling to Pemberly, and they instead accept an invitation to Netherfield Park for the Christmas holiday. Darcy correctly concludes that he may as well stop fighting his attraction to Elizabeth and begin to change her attitude towards him. With the help of Elizabeth's two little Gardiner cousins, both girls, and also with Georgiana 's help, Elizabeth and Darcy are charmed into a series of happy encounters that result in an attachment. The story streamlines the resolution to occur by Christmas following the Netherfield ball. Therefore, most of the peripheral characters are eliminated, along with most of the angst found in the original P&P version. Wickham is disposed of neatly, and Lydia is hardly allowed a single screech. Although it is a short story it didn't feel rushed or contrived. It is a nice, easy, pleasant way to pass a few hours in the good company of ODC, doing what we love them to do, which is fall in love.
December 17, 2018
Avid Reader
What a delightful Christmas story! Elizabeth and Darcy find each other thanks to Georgina, Emily, and Victoria. Mr. Bennett is stronger and wiser; whereas, Mrs. Bennett is less obnoxious. Wickham meets a justified end. Lydia is as silly as ever.
What a delightful Christmas story! Elizabeth and Darcy find each other thanks to Georgina, Emily, and Victoria. Mr. Bennett is stronger and wiser; whereas, Mrs. Bennett is less obnoxious. Wickham meets a justified end. Lydia is as silly as ever.
April 3, 2019
What a sweet story!
An enchanting Christmas tale. I loved Emily and Victoria and the turn the story took. Really worth the time and money!
An enchanting Christmas tale. I loved Emily and Victoria and the turn the story took. Really worth the time and money!
December 2, 2021
Sometimes children can see things more clearly and honestly than the adults around them, and I found that aspect of this sweet, low-angst Christmas Pride and Prejudice variation delightful. But when I say low-angst, I mean it, so if that's a requirement for your enjoyment, you might want to choose something else. Otherwise, recommended to JAFF lovers.
April 29, 2021
Sweet short story.
April 5, 2021
This is a sweet little holiday tale featuring cute Gardiner children and Darcy trying to woo Elizabeth during a Christmas in Netherfield. I read it in two hours, so rather short, and the ending is a bit abrupt.
This is a thing that Darcy thinks after hearing that Bingley invited guests without asking him:
"His concern was growing at Bingley's new found level of independence."
I thought that was very officious and patronizing of him but thankfully the story soon veers into another direction and interfering with Bingley is the last thing from his mind.
This is a thing that Darcy thinks after hearing that Bingley invited guests without asking him:
"His concern was growing at Bingley's new found level of independence."
I thought that was very officious and patronizing of him but thankfully the story soon veers into another direction and interfering with Bingley is the last thing from his mind.
December 29, 2018
Ends abruptly
Ok story though I dislike when relationships form so quickly. The girls are cute and learning about one's childhood is important for a marriage. But it seemed a little one-sided. Then the ending was so abrupt and the Kindle just wanted to display the reading page instead of the last page of the novella, especially when i accidentally turned more than one page at a time.
Ok story though I dislike when relationships form so quickly. The girls are cute and learning about one's childhood is important for a marriage. But it seemed a little one-sided. Then the ending was so abrupt and the Kindle just wanted to display the reading page instead of the last page of the novella, especially when i accidentally turned more than one page at a time.
December 26, 2018
Sweet Read
If you're looking for a short, sweet Christmas read, this is it! Mr. Darcy sets out to change Lizzy's opinion of him. Throw in the Gardiner cousins and Bingley's aunt, and you have a lovely story.
If you're looking for a short, sweet Christmas read, this is it! Mr. Darcy sets out to change Lizzy's opinion of him. Throw in the Gardiner cousins and Bingley's aunt, and you have a lovely story.
December 24, 2021
Just Right for the season
Very impressed. I have been reading pride and prejudice Christmas variations non- stop this week and this is my favorite so far. Sweet and although short, it does not feel rushed.
Very impressed. I have been reading pride and prejudice Christmas variations non- stop this week and this is my favorite so far. Sweet and although short, it does not feel rushed.
December 27, 2021
All the ingredients necessary
A delightful combination of lively little girls, a stronger Bingley, the Christmas season, and sweet romance. Very cute and readable, especially for the holidays.
A delightful combination of lively little girls, a stronger Bingley, the Christmas season, and sweet romance. Very cute and readable, especially for the holidays.
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